Israelis and Palestinians celebrated on Thursday following the announcement of a ceasefire and hostage agreement as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the conflict in Gaza. The adversaries were expected to formalize the deal in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, marking a significant step toward ending two years of devastating warfare. The initial phase of the plan has been put into action, as reported by Egyptian state-affiliated TV al-Qahera news.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that the agreement would come into force after approval by the Israeli cabinet, which convened on Thursday. Palestinians and families of Israeli hostages expressed joy upon learning of the agreement. In Gaza, despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes, young men cheered in the streets, welcoming the ceasefire.
Residents of Gaza reported continued Israeli strikes in three suburbs of Gaza City overnight and into Thursday morning. The Israeli military cautioned residents of north Gaza against returning, citing the area as a “dangerous combat zone.”
Negotiations in Egypt resulted in an agreement on the initial phase of Trump’s 20-point framework, signed by Israel and Hamas. Trump, announcing the milestone on Truth Social, disclosed that all hostages would soon be freed, and Israel would withdraw its troops as a prelude to a lasting peace.
In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, Einav Zaugauker, whose son Matan is among the hostages, expressed overwhelming joy, surrounded by other families awaiting the return of their loved ones. The Israeli government believes 20 hostages are alive in Gaza, while 26 have been declared deceased in absentia.
Leaders worldwide congratulated the progress, with Netanyahu calling it a diplomatic success and a moral triumph for Israel. Hamas and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also commended Trump and the international team of negotiators. Countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the UN, and Russia praised the development, emphasizing the importance of swift implementation for a lasting peace.
Plans for Gaza’s governance post-war and the fate of Hamas remain unresolved, with challenges anticipated, as far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition oppose dealing with Hamas. The international community, including Arab supporters of the plan, envisions eventual independence for a Palestinian state, a notion Netanyahu rejects.
Despite previous failed attempts at peace deals, experts believe the current timing may lead to success, given the exhaustion of both sides’ options. Trump’s plan involves an international body, including Tony Blair, to oversee Gaza’s post-war administration.
Israel’s military campaigns since 2023 have resulted in significant casualties in Gaza and altered the region’s power dynamics. Amid global criticism, Israel justifies its actions as self-defence following the 2023 Hamas attack. Trump’s aspirations for peace have been evident, with the Nobel Peace Prize in mind, although the 2025 nomination deadline has passed.
The international community closely observes the unfolding events, hoping for a lasting solution to the longstanding conflict in Gaza.